On the agenda for the Clear Lake Township meeting this week was county zoning updates, a request for a community solar garden interim use permit (IUP) and a building variance request.

 

Will Georgia from Novel Energy Solutions approached the board with a request for an IUP in regards to the community solar garden they’re planning on constructing in late fall or early spring of next year at the corner of 70th Ave. and Hwy 24. 

 

He explained Novel is focusing on rural areas, keeping electric local to support the local economy and help people save money through electricity. They’re working within Xcel Energy’s service area only, and Xcel customers will be able to subscribe and get a portion of the electricity produced, saving 10% on their utility bill.

 

After reviewing Novel’s plans, the board agreed to fill out the comment form and send it in to the county.

 

Engineer Terrance Vander Eyk reported Hardrives had completed the township’s paving projects. The final cost amounted to $58,612, an increase of $5,000 from the original bid, due to overruns on 99th St. 

 

He also reported sealcoats were completed last week, and that he was able to get the road striping done under a county contract. All but 100th Ave. was completed, as it was flooded at the time the work was done, however it will be finished in a few weeks. He informed the board the bill for $2,900 would be coming in November.

 

Vander Eyk notified the board he would be going out for quotes next week on curbing and gutters on the 37th Ave. cul-de-sac.

 

Sherburne County Planner Sam Lucas attended the meeting to introduce himself and update the township on county planning and zoning. 

 

There are three upcoming zoning activities the county is focusing on. First, the county wants to manage the number of excess vehicles stored outside on properties due to environmental and aesthetic issues. 

 

Second, the county is reviewing and updating their shore land ordinance, including the incorporation of storm water quality standards, reducing runoff and erosion, and preserving vegetative cover.

 

Third, the county is reviewing and updating their zoning ordinance, including reorganizing and making it easier to find information, clarifying vague wording and updating references to current standards. 

 

Lucas asked the board to consider things they would like to see changed, specifically in regards to Clear Lake Township, and invited them to contact him at any time.

 

Troy Midas approached the board requesting an 11’ variance in order to construct a 28’ x 40’ building addition. He needs a 50’ setback and is at 40’ currently. Because of his house and septic system he’s unable to add on in any other direction.

The board had no problems with his request and agreed to send in the comment form.

 

The board briefly discussed the subject of annexing Clear Lake students into the Becker school district, which was submitted to the Becker School Board by a member of the Clear Lake City Council last month and reported in the Citizen-Tribune. 

 

“I wish they would have at least opened up the dialogue with us before they proceeded,” expressed Chairman Gary Gray. 

 

Clearview Elementary is in Clear Lake Township, however the board hasn’t been contacted in the matter.

 

The sheriff reported there were 72 calls for service for the month of June, including 2 thefts of fishing equipment. 

 

He informed the board that family emergency scams were on the rise, with scammers pretending to be family members in need of money.

 

The next Clear Lake Township meeting will be August 16 at 7 p.m.